It all started simply enough. A local mother of four, thinking about the community where she was raising her family, asked why there wasn’t a Pride Festival in Traverse City. Five years (and countless hours of tireless planning) later, Up North Pride Week has become one of the Midwest’s premier celebrations of the LGBTQ community.
For years now, Traverse City has gained exposure as a top foodie town from well-known publications like Bon Appetite, Liveability.com, and theDailyMeal.com. And everyone knows that a foodie town isn't complete unless there's a booming wine and beer scene. Our hub is an eclectic mix of restaurants, wineries, breweries and festivals (We even have one in the spring dedicated to asparagus!).
The penchant for alcohol, in all its forms, continues to evolve in Traverse City. First, there were the wineries. Boutique, often family run endeavors that began in the 70s, they gained a reputation for their signature Chardonnays and Rieslings. Then came the breweries, riding the wave of the craft movement that started in the 80s on the West Coast. Today, “hop heads” can enjoy everything from a chocolatey Stout to a golden Saison in over 15 (and counting) breweries.
If you’re a morning person, you’re in good company in Traverse City. Especially if breakfast is your thing.
Many visitors use the words “Traverse City” as a kind of shorthand for the entire region of peninsulas, islands and forested highlands surrounding Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the most popular single attraction in the Traverse City area, and it’s a rare visitor who won’t trudge up the Dune Climb, motor along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive or frolic on the beach at Good Harbor sometime during their stay.
The Traverse City area has been attracting artists, artisans, writers and musicians for decades -- an influx of talent that gives it a surprisingly rich cultural life. USA Today called it one of 10 great places that combine "big-city art and small-town feel."
A tale of two peninsulas begins on...M-22 or M-37? Mile for mile, these scenic Michigan highways run the lengths of the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas. M-22 follows West Grand Traverse Bay and into Leelanau County, while M-37 goes north into the village of Old Mission. Both are easy drives from downtown Traverse City and can be explored in one day – or a few if you want to really take it all in.
Tell us a little about what a Business Development Manager does at Traverse City Tourism?
The Business Development Manager position is new to TC Tourism, so I feel
like it will be ever changing. I am in charge of advertising for the Annual
Visitor Guide, our Affiliate Memberships, and other promotional pieces.
As you’re traveling in and out of Traverse City please be aware of construction in the area. Below are sections of the region where road updates are happening.
